House of Representatives Vote to Return Benefits to Families of Fallen Soldiers

10/09/2013 05:42 PM

10/09/2013 06:44 PM

House of Representatives Vote to Return Benefits to Families of Fallen Soldiers

10/09/2013 06:44 PM

House Votes: Return Benefits to Families of Fallen Soldiers

The House of Representatives voted Wednesday afternoon to ensure that benefits are paid to the families of fallen soldiers, despite the government shutdown.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The House of Representatives voted Wednesday afternoon to ensure that benefits are paid to the families of fallen soldiers, despite the government shutdown.

The vote was 425 to zero.

This issue of the death benefit was brought to light recently after four American soldiers, including a man from Carlisle, Pa., were killed Sunday while serving in Afghanistan.

The president was also looking into a way to ensure the benefits are paid out. The bill must head to the Senate for a vote.

"We need to make sure that not just Sergeant Hawkins, but all fallen soldiers, our heroes, get their death benefit," said Rep. Bill Shuster, (R) - Pennsylvania.

The death benefit gives the family of fallen soldiers $100,000 to pay for things related to the funeral and return of their loved ones' remains. On Wednesday, Senate leaders say they'll take necessary action to make sure the benefit is restored.

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